5 Simple Ways to Live a More Intentional Life

Distractions. There are so many distractions… and tasks on our to-do lists and competing priorities. We live in a world of instant gratification. We live in a world where technology has allowed us to do more in a shorter amount of time. But at the same time, it’s almost as if the expectation to do more and be more is constantly screaming in our face which causes us to go into autopilot, to feel overwhelmed, and hopeless. How do you pause and live in the present moment? Here’s 5 simple things you can do to live a more intentional life.

Develop Healthy Habits

One of the best things you can do is exercise and eat well. You will feel less stressed, more energized, greater clarity and be in a better mood. I know that whenever I make the effort to exercise, even if it’s just going for a short walk, I feel more confident and calmer. And, I can definitely feel the difference when I eat something like grilled chicken and salad vs a cheeseburger and fries. If you want to live more purposeful, fuel your body the right way so you can do what you need to do!

Get Outside

In my opinion, there are few things more refreshing than getting some fresh air, feeling the sun on my face and being surrounded by nature. Take a hike in the mountains, read a book at the park, or bike through a nearby neighborhood. Research has proven that there are several benefits to being outside. For example, even as little as five minutes spent outdoors may help improve your self-esteem and mood. When you’re feeling better about yourself, you’ll be more likely to live an intentional life.

Set Daily Goals

Set one small goal that you want to accomplish every day. Have this goal be something that is totally in your control. Someone once advised me to make my bed each morning immediately after waking up in order to have one small victory at the start of my day. This is something so simple, that takes less than two minutes, but makes me feel like I accomplished at least one thing that day. It doesn’t have to be making the bed, it can be putting your clothes away at the end of the day instead of throwing them on the floor. It could be taking 5 minutes to clean your kitchen sink. Make it short and simple, it will be less overwhelming, and you will feel so proud of yourself for the little accomplishments you made throughout the day. This will help you be more purposeful and intentional with your time.

Think

Take a few minutes every day to ditch all the distractions and just think. Let your imagination roam. Try to not think about you’re the toilets that need to be scrubbed or what you’re going to make for dinner or the clothes you should take to the dry cleaners. Let your mind daydream and drift off. Think about who you want to become. I like to do this as soon as I wake up before I look at my phone or answer emails. You could also do this while you’re in the shower or instead of listening to music on your commute to work. This will help you feel grounded and get those creative juices flowing.

Serve & Build Relationships

Look for ways to help others. I’m a believer that the quickest way to feel love and connection with someone is by serving them. Go out of your way to do something nice for someone. Not only will it brighten their day, it will brighten yours. Do simple things like make your wife’s lunch before she heads off to work, wash your boyfriend’s car, call your friend and chat about what’s going on in their life. Simple things make a huge impact on everyone’s lives. Relationships provide connection and support, which we all need, to live a more intentional life.